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Group:

Reptile

Estimated genome size:

10 - 20 cm (total body length)

Size:

10 - 20 cm (total body length)

Distribution:

Endemic to the Republic of South Africa, occurring in Little Namaqualand from Port Nolloth to Clanwilliam.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

48.66 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

5.93 kilobases

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Genome Length:

1.56 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

98.8% [S: 96.9%, D: 2.0%]

Importance:

It serves as an important model species for studying specific stages of limb development within the genus Scelotes, representing an intermediate limb development stage (forelimb digits = 0; hindlimb digits = 2), and for investigating the genomic evolution of vertebrates. It has a restricted distribution and occurs in distinct habitats and regions, making it an excellent model species for biogeographic and molecular ecology studies.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Dr. Zhongning Zhao
University of Free State

Group:

Mammal

Genome size:

2.64 million DNA base pairs (2.64 Gigabases)

Size:

80-120 cm

Distribution:

Majority of Zulu sheep are kept kept by rural farmers in the Kwa-Zulu
Natal province of South Africa as a source for income and affordable
protein.

PromethION Sequencing Report:

Output:

60.89 Gigabases

Approximate N50:

12.1 kilobases

Assembly N50:

TBA

Contig number:

TBA

Draft Genome Assembly Statistics:

Assembler used:

TBA

Genome Length:

2.64 Gigabases

BUSCO completeness score (single and duplicated genes):

98.8%

BUSCO database:

TBA

Ovis aries

Zulu Sheep

Species Card Details

Importance:

Zulu Sheep developed unique and specific adaptative traits to local Southern African environments including tolerance to hot and humid conditions, tolerance to local internal and external parasites, endurance, and is immune to most local disease.

Sample Contributor contact details:

Annelin Molotsi Stellenbosch University

Date Published:

2024-05-07

Awaiting DOI

Photo credit:

© S. Ngcobo

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